(Eagle News) — Hollywood actor Stephen Baldwin and President Rodrigo Duterte met on Wednesday, Aug. 1, and talked about pop star Justin Bieber, among other topics.
In a statement, Special Assistant to the President Bong Go, who was present during the actor’s courtesy call at a hotel in Taguig, said it was Baldwin who asked the opinion of the President on the engagement of the actor’s daughter, Hailey, to Bieber.
Baldwin is in the country for the filming of a movie on drugs directed by Cesar Montano.
“The President responded that as long as Mr. Bieber truly believes in the sanctity of marriage, Mr. Baldwin has nothing to worry about,” Go said.
According to Go, Baldwin also noted what he said was the President’s successful leadership style, based on his high trust ratings in surveys.
Go said the President “then explained that he was only trying to implement what he promised during the presidential campaign; which is to fight illegal drugs, put an end to corruption, and restore peace and security in the country.”
According to Go, the President said that “one of the ways to gain respect of the people is to fulfill one’s promises.”
“The Unusual Suspect”
During the meeting, Baldwin gave Duterte “The Unusual Suspect” book, which is the American actor’s autobiographical account, Go said.
Duterte, for his part, promised to read the book.
Go also said the actor noted that the job of government would be made easier if programs that aim to deter people from resorting to vices was implemented.
Baldwin noted that Montano’s film, “Kaibigan,” would be an eye-opener, as it would show the youth the “consequences of making wrong choices in life,” Go said.
The actor then Duterte to attend the premiere showing.
The President also told Baldwin that “he will always be welcome in the Philippines” and that he is willing to “extend his help to him in whatever form, should he need it,” Go said.